GUIDE Dogs Cymru has honoured a Dolgellau man for boosting the charity’s profile in south Gwynedd.

Mark Calvin, 57, topped the Passionate and Determined category at Guide Dogs’ Local Volunteer Awards in Llandudno.

He will now be a contender for the charity’s national awards, which take place in Birmingham this autumn.

Mr Calvin was praised for his energy and enthusiasm in setting up a new Guide Dogs group in south Gwynedd, organising a series of local events and collections.

These included a spring fair at the Dragon Theatre in Barmouth, a sponsored walk at the Mawddach Estuary and several ‘Pat and Chat’ sessions with local guide dogs.

He is a speaker for the charity, highlighting the problems faced daily by people with a vision impairment.

He has also trained as a sighted guide as part of the charity’s My Guide scheme, enabling a local woman with sight loss to get out and about and reintegrate into society.

Jacquie Hughes-Jones, volunteer co-ordinator for Guide Dogs in north Wales, said: “Mark is inspirational and builds a great team atmosphere.

“He is full of good ideas, and has really put Guide Dogs on the map in south Gwynedd.”

To find out how you can help Guide Dogs in your area, call Jacquie Hughes-Jones on 07919 228635 or email [email protected]